Realism, as defined by James H. Rubin, is an artistic and literary movement, [which] claimed to represent ordinary people and their everyday circumstances based on accurate observation (Rubin 91). According to Rubin, realism “emerged in France in the mid-19th century” (Rubin 91) and came to the United States in response to Reconstruction (Owen 9). The defining characteristics of the realistic movement may include the complexities that an average man or woman may face. The subject matter is a depiction of middle class life. To begin with, John Steinbeck's upbringing in an agricultural era led to the depiction of his short stories and novels. “In 1962, Steinbeck received the Nobel Prize for Literature. Steinbeck contributed to realism by being a versatile writer. He has been described as a social protest writer, realist, naturalist, journalist and playwright. Many strong themes run through his works. Most notable are the forces of the family, the effects of the environment on man, and social protests” (Reuben 2). Second, William Dean Howells was born March 1, 1837, in Martinsville, Ohio; Howells is considered “the father of American realism” (Alexander 68). Specifically, Howells contributed to realism by addressing its major themes, such as cosmopolitan life in New York, war, and the American businessman (Cady 17). The overall message presented is that realism allows its readers to reflect on current events and attempt to improve the reality of their lives. The literature of realism focuses on normalcy, embracing mediocrity and the possibility of overcoming adversity. The authors, John Steinbeck and William Dean Howells have written successfully on the realist movement...... middle of article ......ks cited Howell, William. “Editha.” Between darkness and daylight. Elisabeth Kassim. January 1905. March 12, 14. http://public.wsu.edu/~campbelld/howells/editha.pdfBelasco, Susan and Linck C. Johnson. “Editha.” The Bedford Anthology of American Literature. Flight. 2. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins, 2008. 113-24. March 13, 14.McQuade, Donald-editor. “The Literature of an Expanding Nation.” The Harper American Literature, May 5, 1987. Book. March 15, 2014. Campbell, Donna M. “Realism in American Literature, 1860-1890.” Literary movements. Department of English, Washington State University. September 16, 2002. Article. March 15, 2014. Steinbeck, John. “Chrysanthemums”. Literature: an introduction to fiction, poetry and drama. Ed.1995. 239-47. March 20, 2014 Cain, William. “Editha” Pearson Education Inc., American Literature Volume 11. April 25, 2004. March 21 2014.